{it's that time}

As soon as November 1st hits, I'm all business. I love every aspect of the holidays, even the preparations. It wouldn't be the same without my lists, lists, and more lists. I look forward to carefully creating and choosing gifts for friends and family, making new Christmas decorations, enjoying traditions, and baking delicious holiday treats, but first comes the planning.

There is something so cozy about making homemade gifts and immersing myself in holiday projects. I have quite a few of them on my list this year, and I think they are the gifts I am most excited about.

So, what's on my list? Here are a few of my favorites.

-Rick is building the girls a kitchen, stove, and sink, and I am loving the design phase. I can already picture little stainless steel fixtures, sink, and knobs, a gingham curtain to hide the cupboards under the sink, and maybe even a french door style fridge. I found the most delicious vintage baby beds at a garage sale that I'm going to refinish, and then sew bedding for (with fabric that matches the curtains of the kitchen). I also decided to make ABC books for them, so I'm hunting down pictures for every letter of the alphabet--if you have any ideas, let me know!

-For secrecy's sake, I cannot divulge any family projects, but just know, they are going to be good! (this includes Ryan, since he can read.)

-There are always so many ideas floating around in my head for neighbor/friend gifts, that's it's usually a matter of whittling it down to one. Right now I'm vacillating between two of them, but either one will be yummy!

-Two years ago I decided to completely re-do my tree decorations (for the third time). Last year I had very good intentions to decide what I wanted to do, but having two BUSY one year olds didn't help my cause. In fact, we ended up with just lights on our tree, and even that was pushing it! So, this year I have big plans. I am going to have to add to the tree in phases, but there are a few things I'm working on for this year. I found these fantastic pieces of metal that had been cut into Christmas shapes at a nearby boutique, and immediately pictured them on my tree. I will be drilling holes into the top, and tying ribbon (cranberry reds and this really great green) through to make a loop. Apple slices will also be dried, with the same holes and ribbon. Berry garlands are on my list to be purchased (Target's Home brand has a 9 ft. berry garland--just the right size and color), and will add the final touch. I already have a large metal star for the top, and I can't wait to see how it all comes together.

-Oh, the baking. Really, is there anything that smells better than some delicious holiday treat baking in the oven? I look forward to both the tried and true traditional recipes, and also experimenting with new ones. I'm compiling a list...

I have discovered that when you really take joy in the planning and preparation, it makes the celebration that much sweeter.